Uganda has tightened its Ebola measures after confirming two imported cases from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The goal is simple: stop the virus from spreading inside the country. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.
Right now, there’s no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this strain, and it carries about a 50% fatality rate. That’s why the Ministry of Health is moving fast.
Starting within 48 hours of Thursday’s announcement, all passenger flights between Uganda and the DRC will be suspended.
The suspension was announced by Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, during a briefing at the Uganda Media Centre.
The two confirmed cases were Congolese nationals who entered Uganda after being exposed to the virus in the DRC. One person has died. The second patient tested negative for Ebola twice, on 18th and 20th May 2026, and is recovering while being treated for other health conditions.
Health teams have also identified 127 people who came into contact with the cases. Those contacts are now under institutional quarantine and being monitored.
Officials say Uganda’s risk remains high because of constant cross-border trade, economic travel, and direct transport links with the DRC.
The areas considered most at risk include Kasese, Bundibugyo, Ntoroko, Kisoro, Kikuube, Hoima, Kampala, Wakiso, Arua, Koboko, Yumbe, Kanungu, and other border and refugee-hosting districts.
To lower that risk, the government has paused cross-border passenger transport and ferry services on the Semliki River for four weeks.
Weekly markets in border sub counties are also suspended during that period. Cargo and food shipments will continue so supplies aren’t cut off.
Large public gatherings along the border are on hold too. Cultural celebrations and commemorations that draw crowds have been temporarily stopped.
Inside the country, authorities are stepping up checks at borders, schools, hotels, markets, places of worship, and prisons.
Screening, testing, and surveillance are being intensified, especially at informal crossing points.
Schools will open as planned, but the Ministry of Health is telling administrators to strictly follow Ebola prevention protocols.
